Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Custom Sign Design & Painting Services in Portland
Established in 1963, Studio Sign Co. Co. has built a legacy as Portland's premier commercial sign shop. Our expertise combines traditional sign painting techniques with modern materials and technologies to deliver custom, high-quality work. With decades of experience, we specialize in hand-painted signs, murals, and vehicle graphics that capture attention and stand the test of time. Our team, led by third-generation owner Nick Lee, preserves the artistry of traditional sign painting while embracing digital innovation. We serve businesses and individuals seeking unique, durable signage solutions tailored to their specific needs. From gold leaf gilding to screen printing, our craftsmanship reflects a deep understanding of typography, color theory, and visual balance.As a family-owned business for over 50 years, we prioritize client collaboration and maintain a commitment to excellence in every project. Our historical ties to Portland's sign industry and recognition in local media underscore our reputation as trusted experts. Whether creating wall murals or custom vehicle wraps, we blend artistry with functionality to deliver impactful visual communication. Our occasional workshops also share this heritage craft with new generations of sign painters.
Services
Graphic Design
Sign Painting
Murals & Wall Signs
Vehicle Graphics
Gold Leaf Gilding
Screen Printing
Workshops
Details
- Year established: 1963
Highlights and features
- We offer 60+ years of combined sign painting expertise across three generations
- Our team preserves traditional hand-lettering techniques while using modern materials
- We provide both digital and hand-crafted solutions for diverse signage needs
- Our gold leaf gilding and mural work combine artistic heritage with contemporary design
- We maintain Portland's longest-standing commercial sign shop legacy
Services
Sign Painting
Our hand-painted signs combine traditional brush techniques with modern materials for lasting durability. Available on wood, metal, or glass surfaces, these custom creations offer timeless appeal through classic lettering styles and precise color matching. Each sign receives individual attention to ensure perfect execution of typography and visual balance.
Gold Leaf Gilding
Specializing in gold leaf application, we create luxurious finishes using centuries-old gilding techniques. Options include mirror water gilding, matte oil gilding, and mother-of-pearl inlays in various karat golds. This premium service transforms signs, address plaques, and architectural elements into striking visual features with enduring quality.
Vehicle Graphics
We design and install full-color vehicle wraps and vinyl lettering that turn cars and commercial fleets into moving advertisements. Our digital printing and cut-vinyl solutions withstand outdoor conditions while maintaining vibrant colors and sharp typography for maximum brand visibility on Portland's roads.
Murals & Wall Signs
Our wall murals transform blank surfaces into artistic promotional spaces using direct painting techniques. Ideal for both indoor and outdoor applications, these custom designs incorporate branding elements while maintaining the durability needed for Portland's climate conditions through proper surface preparation and materials.
Graphic Design
We create sign designs that balance legibility with aesthetic appeal using typography expertise and color theory principles. Our process incorporates client logos and branding elements while optimizing layouts for visibility at various distances. Traditional hand-drafting techniques complement digital tools for precise, effective sign solutions.
People
Dean G. Stanley
Founder
WWII veteran who founded Studio Sign Co. Co.s in 1963 after attending sign painting school. Specialized in pictorial paintings and landscape murals that helped establish Portland's visual identity through hand-crafted signage.
Melvin K. Lee
President
Took over Studio Sign Co. Co.s in 1984 after learning traditional techniques from industry veterans. Adapted the business to digital changes while maintaining hand-painted sign craftsmanship. Retired in 2020 after 50 years in the trade.
Nicholas K. Lee
Owner
Third-generation sign painter who purchased Studio Sign Co. Co.s in 2018. Combines computer graphic design skills with traditional gilding and lettering techniques. Focuses on preserving sign painting heritage while advancing the craft through modern technology.
Questions
What traditional sign painting techniques do you still use?
We maintain hand-lettering, gold leaf application, and brush techniques passed down through three generations while integrating modern materials for durability.
Can you match existing logos for sign painting?
Yes, we can incorporate your existing logo into hand-painted signs or digital designs while maintaining proper proportions and color accuracy.
Do you offer sign painting workshops?
We occasionally host sign painting workshops covering brush techniques, letterform basics, and traditional methods for Portland-area participants.
What surfaces can you paint signs on?
We work with wood, metal, glass, plastic, and direct wall surfaces for both indoor and outdoor applications.
How long do hand-painted signs last?
With proper preparation and modern protective coatings, our hand-painted signs typically last 10-15 years outdoors in Portland's climate.
Can you create vehicle graphics with custom designs?
Yes, we produce full-color vehicle wraps and vinyl lettering that transform cars into mobile advertising platforms with durable, weather-resistant materials.
